The Theme Building: LAX's Retro-Futuristic Icon
A Space Age icon at LAX, the Theme Building's futuristic design and parabolic arches capture the spirit of mid-century modern architecture and innovation.
The Theme Building at Los Angeles International Airport is a landmark structure embodying the Space Age design. Built in 1961, its distinctive flying saucer shape and parabolic arches make it a quintessential example of Googie architecture, a style influenced by car culture, jet travel and the Atomic Age.
A brief summary to The Theme Building
- 201 World Way, Los Angeles, Westchester, California, 90045, US
- Visit website
- Monday 7 am-8:30 pm
- Tuesday 7 am-8:30 pm
- Wednesday 7 am-8:30 pm
- Thursday 7 am-8:30 pm
- Friday 7 am-8:30 pm
- Saturday 7 am-8:30 pm
- Sunday 7 am-8:30 pm
Local tips
- While the observation deck is currently closed, admire the building's unique architecture from the ground level.
- Visit during the evening to see the building illuminated with colorful spotlights.
- Take photos of the Theme Building from various angles to capture its distinctive shape and design.
Getting There
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Walking
The Theme Building is located in the center of LAX, easily accessible from all terminals. After exiting your terminal on the arrivals level, follow the signs directing you towards the central area of the airport. The Theme Building is situated in the middle of World Way, the main loop road that circles the terminals. Pedestrian walkways and crosswalks provide safe passage to the building. Note that direct pedestrian access to the Theme Building may be limited due to security considerations.
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Public Transport
To reach the Theme Building via public transport, take the Metro C Line or K Line to the LAX/Metro Transit Center. From there, use the free LAX shuttle to reach the airport terminals. Once at the terminals, follow the walking directions to reach the Theme Building in the center of World Way. A regular Metro fare is $1.75, including two hours of free transfers. The FlyAway bus provides non-stop service from Union Station and Van Nuys to LAX for $9.75.
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Taxi/Ride-Share
Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft can drop you off directly at the airport terminals. From there, follow the walking directions to reach the Theme Building in the center of World Way. Taxi and ride-share fares from nearby areas typically range from $15 to $30, depending on distance and traffic.
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Driving
If driving, follow signs to LAX and then to the Central Terminal Area. Parking is available in the parking structures adjacent to the terminals. From the parking structures, follow the pedestrian walkways to the Theme Building. Parking rates in the Central Terminal Area start at $9 for the first hour, and then $7 for each 30 minutes thereafter, up to a maximum daily rate of $60. Alternative parking options are available at off-site economy lots with free shuttles to the airport, with daily rates ranging from $7 to $17.
Discover more about The Theme Building
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